In a bit of a twist, the two teams had a small ball duel. Nolan Arenado doubled in a run in the 1st inning. L.A. scratched and clawed its way to the equalizer in the 4th before Dustin Garneau’s 5th inning homer off the foul pole proved a game-winner.

Ryu was removed after 4.2 innings, and while he tailed off at the end, it was an encouraging start. His velocity sat in the high 80s and low 90s, which is improved from the mid-80s of a month ago. He allowed six hits and two runs while striking out five. Overall, Los Angeles should be satisfied with Ryu’s improvement.

Against the left-handed Freeland, righties Logan Forsythe, Kike Hernandez, Franklin Gutierrez and Yasiel Puig were all hitless. Joc Pederson, who sat out the Tuesday game against lefty Clayton Richard, was 1-for-3 with a walk. The Dodgers (Puig and Pederson, specifically) appear significantly more patient this season, if you’re searching for a positive.

But the team was once again frozen by a southpaw. This time one who overcame the jitters of his first career start coming in his hometown. To Freeland’s credit, he pitched well. Holding the Dodgers to one run at Coors Field is an impressive debut.

The Dodgers’ efforts to improve against left-handers have yet to bear fruit. The players didn’t come through Tuesday (sans Forsythe) or Friday.

There will be plenty more chances early for L.A. to exorcise its demons. It sees Colorado’s Tyler Anderson Sunday, then Chicago’s Jon Lester Monday. The Cubs moved Lester into that spot, well-aware of the Dodgers’ weakness.

A low-scoring affair may take place tomorrow as well. Clayton Kershaw makes his second start of the season Saturday against Rockies ace Jon Gray.

About The Author

Gabe Burns is an award-winning journalist. He serves as a reporter and editor at the DodgersNation news desk. He additionally works as editor-in-chief of The Spectator, Valdosta State University's student paper. Gabe's work has been featured on a number of platforms, including Draft Breakdown and Pro Football Spot. His byline has been cited in media such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune. Aside from covering Dodgers baseball, Gabe enjoys watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Orlando Magic and Tampa Bay Lightning. He can be followed on Twitter at @GabeBurns_DN.